Topwater fishing is one of the best ways to catch bass during late fall, early spring, and late spring when they are in their spawning areas. Topwater baits will often entice a reaction strike from the bass during this time, creating some of the most memorable fishing moments.
What fish do topwater lures catch?
Bass aren’t the only fish that can be caught on a surface lure. Pike are notorious for vicious topwater strikes. Trout, walleyes and even catfish will hit a lure on the surface under the right conditions. The biggest mistake anglers make fishing topwater baits is they set the hook too soon, Castiglioni said.
What does topwater mean in fishing? – Related Questions
What time of day is best for topwater fishing?
Early morning, when the light is low, is a traditional time to fish a topwater lure. Fish them around shallow cover where bass have moved to feed. Work your favorite lure around bushes, logs, stumps, rocks, and brush in the water.
White is a great topwater color for almost every condition, but it’s especially effective on cloudy days or in low-light conditions.” Black: “For whatever reason, Northern bass just love all-black topwater baits,” Yelas said. “If you fish up there a lot, it’s definitely something you need to try.
Will trout hit topwater lures?
Although both trout and redfish will hit a topwater lure, they do seem to have preferences in regards to how you retrieve it. But before we get into the differences, let’s talk about something that is true no matter what species you’re targeting… Don’t set hook until you feel the fish on your line.
Does color matter for topwater?
Color matters, just not as much. Topwater lures are obviously fished on the surface so fish won’t be able to see most of the lure, just the underside. And since most fish have white bellies, topwater lures with white bellies are typically the best choice.
Will redfish hit topwater lures?
“A fast action rod is stiffer,” Condon explains, the higher power helps cast a heavier topwater lure. “It also provides more action to the lure,” working a walk-the-dog lure with a tighter pattern. A redfish’s mouth faces down, so the fish must pounce on a topwater lure.
What type of line is best for topwater lures?
Monofilament is a good option for fishing topwater baits because it almost floats in the water. Monofilament line stretches, making it more difficult to feel a fish bite, so a short monofilament leader on braided line is a great option to minimize the stretch and increase the hook-up ratio.
Despite being a favorite, you’d be surprised at how many anglers consider topwaters a time-and-place presentation. That’s a big mistake; topwaters can be effective from sunup to sundown, and they are also a great way to trigger big bites.
What size rod is best for topwater?
Though one rod and reel can’t do it all when it comes to topwater fishing, a 7-foot medium heavy power rod with a reel in the 7:1 gear ratio range can do the most.
What rod length is best for topwater?
The 7′ rod is the perfect length for walking baits and the tip is designed for topwater baits.
Should I use braid for topwater?
We all love that giant blow up that bass are known for on topwater baits. After hundreds and hundreds of bass on those beloved topwater baits with braid as the line, I can tell you without a doubt that you will land more bass with braided line. Braid will also last for a year or more on a reel, even with lots of use.
What temp will bass hit topwater?
Bass will bite equally well if the water temps drop a few degrees. Once the surface temperatures reach 62 degrees, it’s time to pull out the topwater arsenal. I like to make contact with the cover this time of year to trigger bass.
Should you use a leader with topwater?
An important consideration for any lure is the need to make your leaders as “weightless” as possible, and topwater lures certainly will benefit. Even though a lure may be large in size, do not get caught up thinking you need a heavy leader.
“Basically, though, you want to focus your topwater efforts in water that’s 50 degrees or warmer.” As spring approaches, anglers are automatically drawn to topwater offerings; however, as fall transitions to winter, the question of when to put the surface plugs away can be tricky.